7 Best Small Stainless Steel Microwaves (November 2026)
The best small stainless steel microwaves include the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for tight countertops, the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for sensor cooking, and the BLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft for larger dishes.
On this page (12 sections)
- How we chose these small stainless steel microwaves
- 1. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for tight countertops
- 2. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor cooking
- 3. BLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft: Best for larger dishes
- 4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best compact 900W option
- 5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for family-size capacity
- 6. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for compact 900W cooking
- 7. Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for office break rooms
- How do you choose a small stainless steel microwave?
- What should you check before placing a small microwave?
- Stainless steel microwave alternatives for nearby needs
- Which small microwave stainless steel model should you choose?
The best small microwave stainless steel pick for most compact kitchens is the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700W, Stainless Steel. Its 17.3 in width, 13 in depth and 10.2 in height make it the easiest fit here when counter space matters most.
That size suits a small kitchen, apartment counter, office shelf or dorm. The stainless steel finish gives a clean look that pairs with other appliances, while the compact cabinet leaves more room for prep work nearby.
The 0.7 cu ft capacity suits everyday reheating, drinks, snacks and smaller dishes rather than large family meals. Its 700W output is modest, so simple tasks are the main focus, and 10 power settings help you use gentler heat when full power would be too much.
Controls stay simple with pre programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. A 30 Seconds Express Cooking function, clock, kitchen timer, interior light and removable 10 in glass turntable add practical touches.
Choose the GE 0.9 cu ft model if you want a compact 900W option with a little more capacity and power. Pick the TOSHIBA 1.2 cu ft model when you can give up more counter space for higher output, a humidity sensor and a larger turntable.
This guide compares models by footprint, capacity, power, controls and daily fit. We also look at turntable size, child lock, defrost options and preset buttons.
Measure width, depth and height and allow room for airflow and door opening. A model that fits on paper can still crowd a counter if controls are hard to reach or the door blocks nearby items.
A removable turntable and wipe clean interior keep daily care simple. Keeping the glass clean helps food rotate evenly and makes the cabinet easier to maintain.
If your space is especially tight, start with our guide to the best microwave for small spaces. It can help you narrow the focus before you compare finishes and control styles.
Our picks at a glance
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Best for larger dishesBLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft
9.1/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Best compact 900W optionCheck it - 5
Best for family-size capacityCheck it - 6
Check itBLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
Best for compact 900W cooking - 7
Check itFarberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.
Best for office break rooms
How we chose these small stainless steel microwaves
The best small stainless steel microwave needs to fit the counter before extra features matter. We compared stated dimensions, capacity, output, turntable size, controls and functions for compact kitchens, offices, dorms and apartments.
Fit comes first because a microwave that is too wide or too deep can block prep space or airflow. We treated width, depth and height as practical limits, not just numbers on a spec sheet.
A smaller cabinet usually means less interior room. The 0.7 cu ft models are the narrowest choices here, while the 1.4 cu ft and 1.6 cu ft models need more depth and width.
Capacity affects which plates fit comfortably on the turntable. A 10 in turntable suits smaller plates, while a 12.4 in turntable gives more rotating space for wider dishes.
Power shapes daily use, since 700W models focus on basic reheating and defrosting while higher output models may cook faster. We compared output alongside power levels, because more settings make gentler heating easier for delicate foods.
Controls were considered for clarity in shared spaces. Push button door release, electronic keypad controls, preset buttons and sensor cooking each suit different habits.
Defrost options matter for frozen foods, so we noted models with defrost by weight or time and manual or auto defrost modes. Child lock was also noted for families and shared kitchens.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you are shopping for. That balance helps separate a model that fits well from one that only looks right in a photo.
A larger model may add sensor cooking or a bigger turntable, but it can demand more counter depth and clearance. For compact kitchens, removable glass turntables, interior lighting and easy cleaning also affect long term satisfaction.
Office and dorm use favors simple one touch cooking and clear, easy to read displays. We looked for controls that work for quick reheating without a long learning curve.
For more compact countertop options, compare our guide to the best small countertop microwave. It can sit beside this guide when finish is only one part of your decision.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Size (W x D x H) | Power | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | tight countertops | 0.7 cu ft | 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in | 700W output | 9.6 |
| TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | sensor cooking | 1.2 cu ft | 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in | 1000W output | 9.6 |
| BLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft | larger dishes | 1.4 cu ft | 20.4 x 16.7 x 12.4 in | 1000W | 9.1 |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | compact 900W option | 0.9 cu ft | 19 x 14.5 x 11.5 in stated compact dimensions | 900W | 8.8 |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | family-size capacity | 1.6 cu ft | 21.75 x 17.75 x 12.87 in stated dimensions | 1150W | 8.2 |
| BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | compact 900W cooking | 0.9 cu ft | 18.7 x 13.4 x 10.7 in | 900W | 8.1 |
| Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft. | office break rooms | 0.7 cu ft | 17.3 x 12.99 x 10.14 in | 700W | 7.8 |
1. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for tight countertops
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for tight countertops
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700W microwave output
- 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in
- Stainless steel finish
- 10 power settings
This compact BLACK+DECKER model combines a 0.7 cu ft capacity with a 17.3 in width and 13 in depth. It suits buyers who want stainless steel styling, simple buttons and a removable 10 in glass turntable.
Pros
- Small footprint
- 10 power settings
- Child safety lock
Cons
- 700W output
- Smaller interior than larger picks
The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is the strongest choice when your first limit is counter space. Its 17.3 in width, 13 in depth and 10.2 in height create the smallest stated footprint in this group alongside the Farberware, with a slightly different depth and height.
The 0.7 cu ft capacity suits reheating, drinks, snacks and smaller dishes. Its 700W output includes 10 power settings, so you can lower the power for tasks that need gentler heating.
Six pre-programmed buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. A 30 Seconds Express Cooking function, clock, kitchen timer, interior light and removable 10 in glass turntable add everyday convenience.
The stainless steel finish matches the search for a small stainless steel microwave without moving to a larger cabinet. A child safety lock and push-button door release are useful in shared kitchens.
Choose it when the footprint is more important than extra capacity. If you need a larger turntable or more room for dishes, move up to the 0.9 cu ft or 1.2 cu ft options.
2. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor cooking
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor cooking
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 1000W microwave output
- 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in
- Smart humidity sensor
- 12.4 in glass turntable
The TOSHIBA offers more room and higher output than the smallest models, plus a smart humidity sensor and 10 power levels. Its 20.6 in width needs more counter space.
Pros
- Smart humidity sensor
- 1000W output
- ECO and mute functions
Cons
- Wider footprint
- Heavier 34.8 lb item weight
The TOSHIBA is the best fit when you want a small stainless steel microwave with more interior room and sensor cooking. Its 1.2 cu ft capacity and 1000W output offer a clear step up from the 0.7 cu ft models.
The 20.6 in width, 14.6 in depth and 11.8 in height need more counter space. Measure the area from front to back, then account for the required airflow around the unit before choosing it for an apartment or office.
Smart Sensor Technology adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. The microwave also has 10 unique power levels, defrost by weight or time, one-touch start and preset menus for common foods.
Its 12.4 in glass turntable gives you more room than the 10 in turntables on the smallest models. ECO mode and a mute function may appeal to buyers who want control over power use and sound alerts.
Choose the TOSHIBA when capacity and sensor cooking matter more than the smallest footprint. For a narrow counter, the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu ft model is easier to place.
3. BLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft: Best for larger dishes
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft: Best for larger dishes
- 1.4 cu ft capacity
- 1000W output
- 20.4 x 16.7 x 12.4 in
- 12.4 in glass turntable
- 6 auto cook presets
This BLACK+DECKER gives you the largest capacity among the first three picks, with 1000W output and a 12.4 in glass turntable. It is better for larger dishes than the 0.7 cu ft models.
Pros
- Largest capacity among top 3
- 1000W output
- 10 power settings
Cons
- Deep 16.7 in footprint
- Black enclosure with stainless steel door frame
The BLACK+DECKER 1.4 cu ft model is the right choice when a compact microwave still needs to handle larger dishes. Its 20.4 in width, 16.7 in depth and 12.4 in height make it much deeper than the smallest picks.
A 1000W output and 10 power settings give you more cooking range than a 700W model. The removable 12.4 in glass turntable also gives dishes more rotating space than the 10 in turntables on the smaller BLACK+DECKER and Farberware models.
Six pre-programmed buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. The large LED display, clock, kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking and child safety lock keep the controls practical for daily use.
The product has a stainless steel door frame and black enclosure. That may matter if you want a fully stainless steel appearance rather than a stainless steel front detail with a black cabinet.
Choose it when interior capacity is more important than depth. Check the counter's rear clearance carefully because 16.7 in is the deepest footprint among the BLACK+DECKER options here.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best compact 900W option
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best compact 900W option
- 0.9 cu ft capacity
- 900W power
- 19 x 14.5 x 11.5 in stated compact dimensions
- 7 convenience cook settings
- Child lock
The GE 0.9 cu ft model sits between the smallest and larger options in capacity. It combines a stainless steel finish, 900W power, electronic keypad controls and auto or manual defrost.
Pros
- Compact 0.9 cu ft capacity
- 900W power
- Child lock
Cons
- Wider than the smallest models
- Clearance is needed on each side and above
The GE Countertop Microwave Oven is the best small stainless steel microwave for buyers who want a compact 0.9 cu ft cabinet with 900W power. Its stated compact dimensions are 19 in wide, 11.5 in high and 14.5 in deep.
The 0.9 cu ft capacity sits between the 0.7 cu ft and 1.2 cu ft choices. That middle size can work well when a 0.7 cu ft interior feels limiting but a 1.2 cu ft microwave is too wide.
Seven convenience cook settings, one-touch express cooking, a digital display and electronic keypad provide straightforward control. Manual and auto defrost modes help thaw food by adjusting time and power levels.
GE also specifies airflow space for this countertop model: allow 3 in on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and keep the bottom fully unobstructed. Treat those clearances as part of the installation footprint.
Choose the GE when you want 900W power in a smaller cabinet. If your counter is narrow from front to back, compare its depth with the 18.7 x 13.4 x 10.7 in BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu ft model.
5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for family-size capacity
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for family-size capacity
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- 1150W power
- 21.75 x 17.75 x 12.87 in stated dimensions
- Sensor cooking controls
- 8 convenience cook settings
This GE is the largest-capacity choice here, with 1.6 cu ft and 1150W power. It fits shoppers who want stainless steel styling but have enough counter space for a wider, deeper microwave.
Pros
- Largest capacity
- Highest power
- Sensor cooking
Cons
- Largest footprint
- 39 lb item weight
The GE 1.6 cu ft countertop microwave is the largest-capacity option in this roundup. Its 1150W power and 1.6 cu ft capacity suit larger meals, shared kitchens and buyers who want more interior room than a typical compact model.
The stated dimensions are 21.75 in wide, 17.75 in deep and 12.87 in high. That footprint needs a broad, deep counter, plus the specified 3 in side and top clearances and 1 in rear clearance.
Sensor Cooking Controls monitor moisture and adjust cooking time. The microwave also has one-touch express cooking, 8 convenience cook settings, manual and auto defrost, a digital display, electronic keypad and child lock.
The removable glass turntable supports everyday heating, while the stainless steel finish keeps the exterior aligned with this guide's design goal. At 39 lb, this is also the heaviest item in the group.
Choose it when capacity and power outweigh compactness. It is not the first choice for a narrow shelf, dorm counter or small office kitchenette.
6. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for compact 900W cooking
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for compact 900W cooking
- 0.9 cu ft capacity
- 900W output
- 18.7 x 13.4 x 10.7 in
- 10 power settings
- 10.6 in glass turntable
This BLACK+DECKER keeps the 0.9 cu ft capacity compact with an 18.7 in width and 13.4 in depth. It adds 900W output, 10 power settings and 6 auto cook presets.
Pros
- Compact 0.9 cu ft design
- 900W output
- 10 power settings
Cons
- Black enclosure
- Smaller turntable than larger models
This BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu ft microwave offers a compact middle ground with 900W output and 10 power settings. Its 18.7 in width, 13.4 in depth and 10.68 in height make it shorter and narrower than the GE 0.9 cu ft model's stated dimensions.
Six pre-programmed buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. The microwave also includes a clock, kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking, interior light and a removable 10.6 in glass turntable.
The stainless steel finish works for shoppers searching for a stainless steel small microwave, while the product data also describes a black enclosure and stainless steel door frame. Check the appearance you want before ordering.
A child safety lock and push-button door release add practical features for shared spaces. Quick defrost and 10 power levels give you more control than a basic single-setting microwave.
Choose this model when you want 900W output without moving to a deeper 1.2 cu ft cabinet. Compare the turntable size with your most-used plates before deciding.
7. Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for office break rooms
Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.: Best for office break rooms
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700W output
- 17.3 x 12.99 x 10.14 in
- 10 power levels
- 6 one-touch options
The Farberware uses a small 0.7 cu ft cabinet with 700W output, 10 power levels and 6 one-touch options. Its 17.3 in width suits a compact home kitchen or office break room.
Pros
- Small footprint
- Defrost by weight or time
- Child safety lock
Cons
- 700W output
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
The Farberware 0.7 cu ft model is a practical small stainless steel microwave for an office break room or compact home kitchen. Its 17.3 in width, 12.99 in depth and 10.14 in height keep the footprint small.
The 700W output includes 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking. Six one-touch options cover common foods such as popcorn, potato and pizza, while defrost by weight or time gives you two ways to thaw food.
An LED display shows the clock, timer and remaining cook time. Interior lighting helps you watch the dish, and a child safety lock adds a useful control for shared spaces.
The 0.7 cu ft capacity is best for smaller dishes and regular reheating. If you need more room for larger plates, the TOSHIBA 1.2 cu ft model or GE 1.6 cu ft model gives you more capacity, but both need more counter space.
Choose Farberware when a compact cabinet and simple cooking controls matter most. For another 0.7 cu ft stainless steel option, compare its dimensions and control layout with the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu ft pick.
How do you choose a small stainless steel microwave?
Start with the counter footprint, then check capacity and power. A microwave that fits the width but blocks airflow or leaves no room for the door is not a good fit.
Measure the available width, depth and height. Include the required side, top and rear clearances where the product specifies them, and keep the bottom unobstructed when the model requires it.
Next, match capacity to your dishes. The 0.7 cu ft models suit smaller meals and compact counters, while 0.9 cu ft models add a little more room without reaching the footprint of the largest options.
Power changes cooking time and daily use. The 700W picks are suitable for basic reheating and defrosting, while 900W, 1000W and 1150W models offer higher output for shoppers who want faster cooking.
Controls also matter. Choose 10 power settings if you want more adjustment, sensor cooking if you prefer automatic time changes based on humidity, or simple preset buttons for common foods.
What should you check before placing a small microwave?
Check the full installation footprint, not only the product width. The GE models specify 3 in of clearance on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom.
Confirm that your most-used plate fits the turntable area. The smallest turntables here are 10 in, while the TOSHIBA and larger BLACK+DECKER models use 12.4 in turntables.
Plan access to the controls and door. A push-button release differs from a handle, and both the microwave's height and the counter edge affect how easy it is to load food.
Keep the removable turntable and roller ring clean according to the product instructions. General care should focus on wiping spills promptly and keeping airflow openings clear.
If the stainless steel finish is part of a wider appliance update, you may also want our guide to stainless steel trim for range hood. For cookware questions, see our advice on microwave safe metal containers.
Stainless steel microwave alternatives for nearby needs
A stainless steel finish is only one part of a small kitchen setup. It can help a microwave coordinate with other appliances, but size, capacity and controls still decide whether it works day to day.
If color matters more than finish, compare the best small white microwave models for another compact look. A white finish may suit a bright kitchen or a rented space where a lighter tone feels more in place.
For a shared workspace, our guide to the best small microwave for office focuses on break room fit and daily use. Office needs often favor simple presets, easy cleaning and a cabinet that does not crowd a shared counter.
If you are matching other countertop appliances, our guide to the best rice cooker stainless steel inner pot covers a related stainless steel choice. Matching finishes across appliances can make a small kitchen feel more planned and cohesive.
Nearby needs can change the right pick even when the search starts with stainless steel. A dorm may need child lock and compact depth, while a family kitchen may need a larger turntable and more capacity.
Set up should be checked before any finish decision becomes final. Measure the counter, allow clearance for airflow, and confirm that the door and controls remain easy to reach in the chosen spot.
Care also matters when finishes are part of a wider update. Wiping spills promptly and keeping the turntable and interior clean helps any compact microwave stay practical in daily use.
Stainless steel can be a sensible choice when you want a neutral look that fits many styles. The final choice should still start with footprint, then capacity, power and the controls you will use most often.
Which small microwave stainless steel model should you choose?
Pick the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu ft model when your counter is tight and 700W output is enough for your usual meals. Its small width and depth make it a practical first choice for compact kitchens, offices and dorms.
Choose the GE 0.9 cu ft model when you want a compact 900W option with electronic keypad controls. That middle size adds capacity without moving to the footprint of the largest models here.
Choose the TOSHIBA 1.2 cu ft model for sensor cooking, a 12.4 in turntable and more interior room. It suits shoppers who want humidity sensing and higher output, provided the counter has space for its wider cabinet.
Pick the GE 1.6 cu ft model only when your counter can handle the larger footprint and you want the most capacity here. Its 1150W power and family size interior are strong points, but depth and weight need honest consideration.
For a compact microwave that balances footprint, power and daily controls, compare the 0.7 cu ft BLACK+DECKER with the 0.9 cu ft BLACK+DECKER and GE models. Each step up in capacity tends to bring a larger cabinet and a bigger turntable.
Measure first, then choose the capacity and turntable size that fit your dishes. If your most used plate turns freely with room to spare, the smaller model may be enough for daily reheating.
Check clearance and door swing before buying, since airflow space is part of the real footprint. Keep the bottom unobstructed where required and leave room at the rear so the microwave can run properly.
Think about set up in the place where it will live, not just where it looks best in a photo. Controls should be reachable without stretching, and the door should open without hitting nearby items.
For daily care, choose a removable turntable that is easy to wash and an interior that can be wiped clean after spills. Simple care helps a small microwave stay dependable for reheating, defrosting and quick preset cooking.
The right model fits your counter, your dishes and your habits at the same time. Start with measurements, match capacity to your meals, and let power and controls break any remaining ties.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Best for larger dishes
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft
9.1/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best small microwave stainless steel model?
The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu ft model is the best small microwave stainless steel choice for a tight countertop because it is 17.3 in wide, 13 in deep and 10.2 in high. Choose the GE 0.9 cu ft model for 900W output or the TOSHIBA for more capacity and sensor cooking.
What size microwave fits a small kitchen?
A small kitchen microwave should fit the available width, depth and height with room for required airflow. The smallest models here are 17.3 in wide, while larger choices reach 21.75 in wide.
Measure the counter and check the model's clearance instructions before buying.
Is stainless steel good for a small microwave?
Stainless steel gives a small microwave a finish that can coordinate with other kitchen appliances. The finish does not determine the footprint, so compare each model's width, depth and height.
Also check capacity, power and controls because these vary across compact stainless steel microwaves.
Is 700W enough for a small microwave?
A 700W microwave can handle basic reheating, defrosting and one-touch cooking, but it may need different times from a higher-output model. The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu ft and Farberware 0.7 cu ft picks use 700W output and include multiple power settings.
